Marketing is easy to neglect in a busy law firm, especially when your attorneys are up to their ears in work. However, establishing a successful public relations strategy with outside help is often a key factor in developing long-term success. When considering hiring an outside public relations company, research will lead you to questions like:

• How do I know if my public relations work is working?
• Which method of marketing, traditional or digital, will give me the most bang for my buck?
• Can I track how many people view my ads?
• What is the difference between public relations, marketing, and advertising, anyway?

Let’s start with a mutual understanding of the differences between these three areas. Essentially, all three areas are a subset in the field of communications.

Public relations contacts and develops relationships with media on the local or national level in order to pass along information in relation to your firm, whether that is to alert the news of an upcoming event or to request an interview with your staff for exposure. An effective public relations plan will get your firm tangible results, with media outlets requesting and using your content for print. A firm that has already developed strong relationships with the media can be an essential tool in your belt.

Marketing involves both digital and traditional plans: essentially, sending out fliers, e-blasts, and postcards to prospective clients. Many business owners can’t spare the time to develop contact lists, so seeking the assistance of an outside firm is desirable. Traditional and digital marketing are both good investments; implementing each depends on the firm’s goals and needs.

Advertising basically boils down to placing advertisements in newspapers, magazines, and other publications, or on television, radio, or billboards. Most ads require the attention of a graphic design and a copywriter, and often an editorial team as well. While traditional advertising will garner leads, digital advertising has built-in tracking measures that make it easier to view who has seen and interacted with your ads.

Attorneys may not have the time to create and carry out a full-fledged marketing plan. Hiring a firm that specializes in the areas of public relations, marketing and advertising is a tried-and-true way to make certain your goals are being met. PR4Lawyers is an experienced attorney marketing firm that has accomplished successful strategies for over a decade. For more information about our services, please call 1-866-PR4LAWYERS (866-774-5299) or fill out our online contact form.